In 1979, one of Canada’s first fast-casual, Japanese-inspired restaurant franchises planted its roots right here in Calgary at Southcentre Mall. On a mission to share Japanese flavours and foster a strong community connection, Reverend Susumu Ikuta, a Buddhist minister, started Edo Japan, where many Calgarians experienced Teppanyaki for the first time.
Now, forty-six years later, the thriving franchise continues to be loved for its distinctive sizzle by Canadians coast to coast, with more than 200 locations serving over 11 million meals a year.
A rich and flavourful history
As one of Calgary’s only Teppan-style restaurant options in the late ’70s, Edo Japan stood out in the food court. With cooks combining the delicious flavours of fresh vegetables and proteins seared to perfection on a Teppanyaki grill and topped with Edo Japan’s signature teriyaki sauce right before you, Calgarians immediately took to the Edo Japan concept. In 1981, Edo Japan expanded to Edmonton. After franchising in 1986 and an ownership change in 1999, Edo Japan rapidly expanded, opening its first street-front restaurant in 2002 in Calgary and celebrating 100 locations in Alberta in 2011.
“Since day one, we have been committed to serving freshly made meals crafted from the highest quality ingredients,” says Dave Minnett, president and CEO of Edo Japan. “Over the years, we have continuously refined and elevated our menu, enhancing our offerings and modernizing both our store and ordering experience to align with our guests’ evolving tastes and preferences.”
Expanded menu, same signature flavours
Edo Japan’s diverse menu has grown to include fresh sushi rolls, flavourful ramen soups and a selection of bubble teas. Customers come for Edo Japan’s distinct and delicious Japanese flavours in menu items, new and old. The love for original dishes, like Teriyaki Chicken and Sukiyaki Beef, remains steadfast.
“Our signature teriyaki sauce has remained a beloved staple of the Edo Japan experience for 45 years. It’s more than just a sauce; it’s an iconic part of our story,” says Minnett. “Our guests have developed a special connection with this sauce — so much so that many describe themselves by the number of scoops they prefer: one, two or even three!”
Looking to the future
As Edo Japan moves forward, its commitment to the community and sustainability grows. Edo Japan has partnered with local food banks across Canada since 2010, raising over $1 million through its annual holiday giving campaign. Additionally, in collaboration with ChopValue, Edo Japan has recycled more than 148,000 chopsticks for use in furniture and other products.
Edo Japan also looks to deepen its connection with loyal customers by refining its loyalty app and using customer feedback to guide future innovations. “The future of Edo Japan is bright and full of opportunity,” says Minnett. “Our growth plans for 2025 and beyond are focused on deepening our connection with loyal customers, reaching new guests and communities, and supporting our franchise partners in their continued success. As we expand, we’re also committed to evolving our menu to reflect changing tastes and enhancing our store designs to create an inviting, modern experience.”
The Edo Japan franchise model has earned the company 14 consecutive awards from the Canadian Franchise Association. Edo Japan plans to expand throughout the country, into the Maritimes, and is open to exploring opportunities in new regions, such as expanding into the U.S.
This continued growth and future-forward thinking speaks to Reverend Ikuta’s original vision, which remains at the heart of Edo Japan — to sustainably support and bring together the community with authentic and enjoyable Japanese flavours.
To learn more, visit edojapan.com.
This content was produced for the advertiser by RedPoint Media for commercial purposes. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of Avenue staff.